iTechGuides is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more
Media keys—buttons, dials, or Fn-layer shortcuts for playback and volume—let you control audio without reaching for another device or hunting through an app. They are a quality-of-life feature, not a must-have: their value depends on how often you adjust sound or playback while your hands are already at the keyboard.
What media keys do
On a physical keyboard, media controls typically handle play or pause, track changes, and volume. Some keyboards provide dedicated buttons or a dial; others place these functions on a secondary Fn layer. The exact functions and key combinations vary by model, so check the keyboard’s layout and documentation rather than assuming a particular key will work.
Why dedicated controls can be useful
If you are watching a video, listening to music, gaming, or in a meeting, a nearby button or dial can make it easier to adjust playback or volume while keeping your attention on the main activity. Dedicated controls also spare you from remembering an Fn combination. That is a convenience argument, not a measured productivity gain: the sources available do not establish how much time media keys save or whether they improve performance.
Dedicated keys or an Fn shortcut?
| Control type | What to expect | Trade-off |
|---|---|---|
| Dedicated buttons or dial | Media or volume actions have their own physical controls. | Convenient to reach, but they take space on the keyboard. |
| Fn-layer controls | Media actions share keys with other functions and are activated with an Fn combination. | Can preserve a smaller layout, but requires locating and using the secondary function. |
Neither arrangement is automatically better. Choose dedicated controls if you use them often and want direct access; choose an Fn layer if a smaller keyboard matters more and the shortcuts are comfortable to use.
#1 Best Overall
- KEYBOARD: The keyboard works for Windows with hot keys that enable easy access to Media, My Computer, Mute, Volume up/down, and Calculator
- EASY SETUP: Experience simple installation with the USB wired connection
- VERSATILE COMPATIBILITY: This keyboard is designed to work with multiple Windows versions, including Vista, 7, 8, 10 offering broad compatibility across devices.
- SLEEK DESIGN: The elegant black color of the wired keyboard complements your tech and decor, adding a stylish and cohesive look to any setup without sacrificing function.
- FULL-SIZED CONVENIENCE: The standard QWERTY layout of this keyboard set offers a familiar typing experience, ideal for both professional tasks and personal use.
What to check when choosing a keyboard
- Control access: Look for dedicated media buttons or a dial, or confirm which functions are available through the Fn layer.
- Layout and size: Compact keyboards may omit extra controls. Inspect the exact layout instead of assuming a smaller board retains them.
- Other requirements: Consider switch type, typing feel, connectivity, and any other features that matter to you. Media controls alone do not establish that a keyboard is a good fit.
- Exact revision: Verify the specific model and revision, because a product family can have different layouts or features.
A documented tenkeyless example
Razer’s support page for the Huntsman V3 Tenkeyless 8KHz lists volume-control keys and media controls. Its layout identifies the media controls as a multi-function dial with two dedicated buttons. This illustrates that a tenkeyless keyboard can include media controls, but it is not a comparative test or a recommendation based on performance, price, or availability.
How to tell whether your keyboard has them
- Check the keycaps and keyboard layout for play/pause, track, or volume symbols, dedicated buttons, or a dial.
- If there are no obvious dedicated controls, inspect the manual or manufacturer’s product page for secondary Fn functions.
- Try the documented shortcut or control while audio is playing, then check whether it changes playback or volume in the app you use.
Media controls are a modest convenience rather than a universal requirement. If you regularly change volume or playback from your desk, direct controls may suit your habits; if you rarely use them or prioritize a compact layout, an Fn shortcut—or no media controls at all—may be enough.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 【104 Keys Full Size Keyboard】GEODMAER Wired Gaming Keyboard Featuring classic full-size 104-key layout with 12 multimedia keys — engineered for seamless transitions from intense gaming sessions to productive office work. Plug-and-play. No drivers needed. Built to last.
- 【Wired Connection】Gaming Keybaord connects via 1.5m wired connection with ultra-low input latency and 19-key full anti-ghosting — engineered for flawless performance in gaming and precision typing. Dedicated Wins key lock (FN+Win) prevent accidental touches.
- 【LED Backlit Keyboard】GEODMAER Wired Gaming Keyboard using the new two-color injection molding key caps, characters transparent luminous, in the dark can also clearly see each key, through the light key can be OF/OFF Backlit, FN + light key can switch backlit mode, always bright / breathing mode, FN + PGUP / PGDN adjust the brightness increase / decrease, FN + - /= adjust the breathing frequency slow / fast
- 【Ergonomics Keyboard】The ergonomically designed keycap height maintains the comfort for long time use, protects the wrist, simultaneous key presses are quieter than mechanical keyboards, making it an entry-level membrane gaming keyboard ideal for new players.
- 【Strong Working Life】Wired gaming keyboard has more than 10,000,000+ keystrokes lifespan, each key over UV to prevent fading, has 12 media buttons, full size gaming keyboard with fully functional, increase gaming/efficiency.
Rank #4
- TAKE CONTROL OF YOUR MEDIA - Enjoy dedicated multimedia keys. Easily control your music, video, and more with a wired keyboard with volume control and playback keys.
- TYPE IN COMFORT - Our desktop keyboard features an integrated wrist rest for extra support during long hours of typing. Also an adjustable kickstand allows for optimal angles.
- JUST PLUG AND PLAY - Just plug the 5ft USB-A cable in to being typing instantly. Easy plug and play pc keyboard and chromebook keyboard with no additional software needed.
- FULL-SIZE KEYBOARD - With 114 quiet keys featuring 10 multimedia keys and 14 shortcut keys, you can perform any type of work making it the ideal office keyboard or external keyboard for laptop or computer.
- WHAT YOU'LL RECEIVE - Along with our wired usb keyboard you will also receive a friendly support, and up to 2 years of warranty.
Rank #3
- 7 Unique Backlight Color: 7 Elegant LED backlight with 3 brightness level.
- Easy Setup: Simply insert the 1.2M (4 feet) USB wire into your computer and use the keyboard instantly.
- Ergonomic design: Scissors X structure gives you the comfortable typing experience, low-profile keys offer quiet and comfortable typing.
- Ultra Thin and Light: Compact size (16.7 X 4.5 X 0.24in) and light weight (17.4oz) but provides full size keys, arrow keys, number pad, shortcuts for comfortable typing.
- Package contents: Arteck Backlit USB wired Keyboard, welcome guide, our 24-month warranty and friendly customer service.
Rank #2
- The things you do most are right at your fingertips with one-touch controls for instant access to play/pause, volume, mute and the Internet.
- Comfortable low-profile keys: Enjoy fast, fluid quiet typing on a familiar standard layout, including number pad.
- High-definition optical mouse: Smooth, responsive cursor control from a comfortable sculpted mouse.
- Sleek and durable design: Thin profile, spill-resistant design, durable keys and sturdy adjustable tilt legs. Tested under limited conditions (maximum of 60 ml liquid spillage). Do not immerse keyboard in liquid.
- Plug-and-play PC compatibility: Simple USB connection. Works with Windows XP, Windows Vista, Windows 7, Windows 8 or later or Linux kernel 2.6 or later.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
